After a frustrating 2-0 defeat to Arsenal on Wednesday evening, Rúben Amorim, the new Man United coach, has revealed the only way his side can improve their performance this season.
However, it was his frustration with Arsenal’s set-piece tactics that seemed to be more of a concern to him, footballrover reports.
What is Amorim’s plan to fix this? And why is he so vocal about the impact of their host’s strategy?
The Mikel Arteta side secured a comfortable win at the Emirates Stadium, continuing their resurgence with a solid performance that saw them score two goals from set pieces.
Rúben Amorim reflects on set-piece failures after Arsenal defeat
Despite a strong start by Manchester United, holding off the hosts until halftime, the game changed dramatically in the second half.
Rúben Amorim’s side, still finding their rhythm under his new leadership, were practically undone by the Gunners’ well-executed corner routines.
The North London side capitalised on two set-piece opportunities, with Jurrien Timber heading home to break the deadlock, followed by a second goal from William Saliba.
Man United’s defence, although resilient at times, struggled to deal with the home team’s physicality and tactical setup during dead-ball situations.
The new gaffer was particularly vocal about how the set pieces shifted the momentum, claiming they played a vital role in the outcome of the match.
The Manchester United manager expressed his disappointment, noting that despite some promising moments, his team failed to convert their own set-piece opportunities, including a Matthijs de Ligt header brilliantly saved by David Raya.
In the aftermath of the match, the United boss mphasised the importance of hard work and improvement.
The coach made it clear that his focus moving forward would be on building a team capable of competing at the highest level.
“We have to work more. That’s the only way. Work, work, improve. We want to win games, and we will try to do that in the next game,” he said.
However, he also pointed to the Gunners’ crowding of the goalkeeper during set pieces, which he argued made it almost impossible for his players to contest the ball.
Although frustrated, coach Ruben acknowledged the need for his side to strengthen their defensive capabilities in future encounters.
“The set pieces changed the game. The set pieces have killed the game. Arsenal put a lot of players near the goalkeeper, and it’s almost impossible to fight for the ball. But we have to manage to defend them, and we already know we have to be better,” Ruben added.
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